Fin's Fish Guide
The Rainbow darter (Etheostoma caeruleum) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Fresh water of central and eastern North America, in clear, fast-flowing streams and rivers with gravel.
Description
The rainbow darter is a small bottom perch of the family Percidae reaching about 8 cm. In the breeding season the male is one of the most vivid freshwater fish of North America, with alternating bright blue and orange crossbars over head, flank and fins; the female stays a plain brown. Like other darters it lacks a well-developed swim bladder and 'hops' in short bursts over the bottom of clear, fast-flowing streams and rivers with gravel in central and eastern North America. On the bottom it hunts insect larvae, small crustaceans and fish eggs. In spring it spawns in the gravel. It is sensitive to pollution and serves as an indicator of clean water.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rainbow darter?
The Rainbow darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Small bottom-dwelling perch; in the spawning season the male is spectacularly banded in blue and orange, the female inconspicuously brown.
Where does the Rainbow darter live?
The Rainbow darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of central and eastern North America, in clear, fast-flowing streams and rivers with gravel.
How big does the Rainbow darter get?
The Rainbow darter grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Rainbow darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Rainbow darter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Rainbow darter edible?
The Rainbow darter is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Etheostoma
More from the family Percidae
Want the complete picture on the Rainbow darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rainbow darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.